Perikatan Nasional’s Indera Mahkota MP Saifuddin Abdullah also criticised the move to allow the Chinese crew members to visit a school, asking why the particular school was chosen.

“Was the foreign ministry consulted beforehand? Was this a decision by the defence ministry? Why were they given such a warm and festive reception?” he asked in a statement today.

Saifuddin, who served as the foreign minister during the Ismail Sabri Yaakob administration, said the government should be more sensitive and mindful of public sentiment.

“The government needs to be more sensitive and mindful of public sentiment, especially since the media frequently reports on the intrusion of Chinese assets into our waters near Sabah and Sarawak, including protests received by Petronas regarding its activities in Kasawari,” he said.

The Chinese naval ships Qi Jiguang and JingGangShan docked in Penang on Saturday for a three-day goodwill visit intended to enhance mutual trust between the naval forces of China and Malaysia.

News reports said the naval personnel visited a private high school in Penang while making courtesy calls to local officials.

State executive councillor for tourism Wong Hon Wai reportedly said these exchanges reflect a commitment to peace and security in the region.

Saifuddin also said the government has yet to address the issue of Chinese nationals entering the country and becoming allegedly untraceable, raising security and sovereignty concerns.

“I hope the defence ministry, the Penang government and the education ministry will provide clarification on this matter,” he said.